Here’s What’s I&N Store: The Spring Break Edition. It’s a lot like the MTV Spring Break shows of the late-’80s, just without the alcohol and the butt floss.

OK, so it’s nothing like the MTV Spring Break shows of the ’80s.

Rebels #1 (Dark Horse): Just I&N and I&N Demand I’m grabbing this one and I’m grabbing it fast! How fast? Howard Fast–that how fast. Man. That’s pretty damn fast. It’s not as fast as I’d like, though. See: my guy doesn’t open until Noon. So, instead of picking up my book on a fine April morning, I’ll be picking it up in the afternoon. Hey: either way, it works for me. I’m just excited to get something original from Brian Wood, one of our favorite writers. In fact, his recently completed Dark Horse series earned the #5 spot in our Top Ten of 2014. But this–this–may be an even more massive undertaking. There’s a Revolution calling–and I’m picking up. Fast.

Rebels #1

Astro City #22 (DC/Vertigo): You know, it’s funny: I didn’t care for the Quarrel arc at all until, wouldn’t you know, “The End of the Trail.” #21 hit some decent notes, including the all-in, action-packed opening and the honesty that fueled the resolution. But as someone who has been critical of the arc, I found the final page the most honest bit of writing that Busiek has done outside of The Autumnlands: Tooth & Claw lo these last several months. I know, I know: I’m hearing what I want to hear; but, come on, it’s pretty remarkable that Samaritan says, “There’s got to be a better way than this. We’re losing people we shouldn’t lose.” Um, yeah! Hello! “Good hearts, good minds.” My heart! My mind! “There’s got to be a fix”–yes, indeed! “We can’t leave it like this…” Mr. Busiek, I suspect you won’t. That’s why I’m willing to stick around. Good talk, by the way.

Convergence #1 (DC): Ouch. Dan Jurgen’s super-redundant #0 left me feeling super-loopy; it left me feeling like I want to be left out of the latest reboot loop. Are we kicking things off in the Bizarro world or something? Because I can’t imagine that Scott Lobdell’s name is much of a selling point nowadays. I guess if your plan is to destroy the Universe as we know it…

Copperhead #6 (Image): Copperhead started off really, really well. Then it became, well, pretty run-of-the-mill. Hey, I get it: it’s tough to keep the magic going. Correspondingly, it gets tougher to keep the money flowing.

Descender #2 (Image): Look: #1 was OK. It was familiar and cheesy and did what it needed to do for a first issue. But it wasn’t the big book that many of the review sites built it up to be. Gotta give my man Derek props for his prediction, which may or may not play out: he expects Descender to play out a lot like Sweet Tooth, which I haven’t read. I do know, however, that Lemire’s not afraid to lean on stuff he’s already written. I’m willing to go at least two deep to see if he’s got something new–at least in my sphere–something that’ll hit me like Essex County or Trillium.

Nameless #3 (Image): I&N Demand Let’s be honest with each other: #1 wasn’t all that good. (Granted, it was a #1–even more, it was a Morrison #1.) #2, however, asserted very adamantly, “We’re all good,” what with that terrific twist and all. So, yeah, I’m glad I didn’t cross this one off of my list. It may claim to be Nameless, but it’s kinda Namemore, isn’t it? I mean, Morrison and Burnham are names that sell, names that deliver. Scott Lobdell, however…

The Surface #2 (Image): I don’t know: I didn’t like #1 very much. Might be because I’m stupid. Might also be because Ales Kot–who’s killing it on Zero, our #7 book of 2014–can be pretty incomprehensible at times. No, really: I skimmed through it. I never skim through a comic. I skimmed through this one, though, because I couldn’t connect to it. Odd, right? Especially considering the clever social commentary about being hyper-connected…

All-New Hawkeye #2 (Marvel): Fraction’s baby should’ve been put to sleep for good. But it wasn’t. Instead, Lemire’s in charge; and, as usual, he’s reaching into his quiver of tricks–this time back-waaaaaaay back–to Trillium. That’s right: the last page, if anything, was a flipping warning. Yeah, I’m leaning toward passing.

Ant-Man #4 (Marvel) I&N Demand Ant-Man is a big book–a huge book!We loved #2 enough to name it one of our Top 5 Books of February. #3 was pretty awesome, too. I mean, c’mon: the Taskmaster? And how about the line of the year so far: “Pick a theme!” Yeah, I laughed out loud. Thank you, Mr. Spencer! Something tells me that we’ll be celebrating your book again! Yeah, it’s more than just a little vice at this point, ain’t it?

Ant-Man #4

Evil Empire #12 (BOOM!): Suddenly, I’m not so excited about Evil Empire. Doesn’t feel as tight. And, if I’m being honest, Victor Santos’s art hasn’t lived up to the standard set by those who have come before him. I’m pretty invested at this point, so I can’t imagine jumping off.

Avery’s Pick of the Week

Scooby Doo Where Are You? #56 (DC): Of all of the comics I’ve bought for Avery, the ones I reread the most are Scooby Doo books. She loves the big reveals!

No, really. I’ve got a hole in my heart. As of right now, however, my cardiologist is pretty firm in his opinion that comics are not the best option with which to fill it.

I’m in the market for a second opinion.

Hellboy & The B.P.R.D. #4 (Dark Horse): Hellish back-grenading, murderous monkey monsters, “insane Frankenstein crap,” and an ominous mound of bones–if that’s not enough to bring a reader back for more, I don’t know what is!

Lady Killer #3 (Dark Horse) I&N Demand #1 was one of our Top 5 books of January. It announced its arrival: “Killer comic calling!” and left quite an impression. #2 didn’t have the same effect–mostly because there was no surprise this time, and expectations were high going into it–but it certainly didn’t disappoint. Joëlle Jones’ artwork is the big draw here–it’s elegantly aggressive and sells Josie’s separate spheres very well. (Doesn’t hurt that it’s polished off to murderous–and motherly–perfection by Laura Allred’s color palette time machine.) Story-wise: despite Josie’s denial, there’s definitely trouble on the horizon–yeah, Jones and Jamie S. Rich aren’t kidding around with the dilemma that’s driving the plot into #3.

Lady Killer #3

Neverboy #1 (Dark Horse): Shaun Simon and Tyler Jenkins are blurring the lines “between the real and the imaginary.” That’s right up my alley, gents! (Consider how blown away I was–still am–by the lengths Matt Kindt went to tearing down the aforementioned lines in Mind MGMT #30, our favorite book of January. Now, that’s how you do it!) Oh, I’ll bite all right. Professional prognostication: I’m thinking that this particular pick’ll be positively Pan-ed!

Detective Comics #40 (DC): All of a sudden, my Bat-book of choice is Manapul and Buccellato’s Detective. How the heck did that happen? The world’s gone mad! It’s–it’s–Anarky!

G.I. Joe #6 (IDW): Through #4, I was all in. I was like, “Yo Joe!” I was 13 again–except for the fact that this wasn’t your grandHama‘s G.I. Joe; this was an elevated–and engrossing–approach from novelist Karen Traviss. Again, through #4. #5? A rather muddled mess. Damn thing’s literally all over the place! Suddenly, I’m left wondering how much more I can take.

Descender #1 (Image) Just I&N and I&N Demand Lemire’s Descender is only the second title to earn both designations! (The first: last week’s Mister X: Razed from master builder Dean Motter.) The blurb on previewsworld.com has me thinking Blade Runner meets Essex County. Yes, please. Is there any doubt that this’ll ascend to the top of our list for the month of March? Yeah. Didn’t think so.

Descender #1

Nameless #2 (Image): If it weren’t Morrison, I’d be off after one. I mean, I’m totally occulted out at this point. If this issue isn’t particularly tight, I’m going to review it this way: Morrison’s occult/sci-fi mash up is Thomas Alsloppy.

Saga #26 (Image): Revolution calling!

All-New Hawkeye #1 (Marvel) I&N Demand Hoping that Lemire is fully invested–that he’s not going to be working at a fraction of his capabilities, especially now that he’s spreading himself as thin as a bowstring. Boy, does he have a huge quiver to fill! Also hoping that he doesn’t miss the mark as he did with Green Arrow.

All-New Hawkeye #1

Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #10 (Marvel): I&N Demand #9 was another explosion of kinetic cartooning from Kaare Andrews. Great splashes, great layouts–the art as a whole elevates an already solid story, solid writing. Reads with an energy similar to Kindt’s Mind MGMT. “Ha-ha-hee!” That’s high praise around these parts!

Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #10

Miracleman #16 (Marvel) I&N Demand Classic isn’t strong enough a word to describe #15. There are moments–impossible moments amplified by impossible choices–still gnawing at me. It’s angels hurling mountains at each other; it’s George pulling the trigger. It’s Alan Moore firing a canon at the superhero and building him anew.

Blackcross #1 (Dynamite): This is an Ellis buy. Recent résumé: Moon Knight was one of our Top Ten Books of 2014. Trees, however, has been freakishly frustrating. (He’s got to know that–he’s got to! So there’s got to be a reason for his frustrating the hell out of us, right? Am I too trusting?) Even though I don’t have any experience with Project Superpowers, I’m going to give it a try.

Über #23 (Avatar): Gillen Hitlered a bunch of high notes in the most recent act of his Wagnerian war story. “Capitulation or immolation,” indeed!

X-O Manowar #34 (Valiant): Remains one of the most consistent monthlies. Never reaches rarefied air, but doesn’t need to to be effective. The book’s biggest strength remains Aric, who has remained true to himself–and to us–thanks to Venditti’s thoughtful approach to his plight and his power.

Of course not. The deep freeze doesn’t give a sleet how hot the books are.

Still worth the risk, though, of jumping into the ol’ snowmobile and maybe–quite possibly–most assuredly–running off the road, ramming into another road warrior, and/or crashing right through the façade of your favorite comic shop.

Right?

Right.

Whoa, wait: I may have something here: a drive thru comic shop…

Somebody get on that.

Hellboy & The B.P.R.D. #3 (Dark Horse)

Lady Killer #2 (Dark Horse) I&N Demand I tweeted this out about a perfectly executed #1 because I had to:

Superman #38 (DC) I&N Demand New costume? Thank God. New power? Say what? It’s as bright as day: Johns and JRJ have been like twin yellow suns re-energizing the Last Son of Krypton; so I’m down with whatever it is they want to do.

Superman #38

G.I. Joe #5 (IDW)

Birthright #5 (Image)

East of West #17 (Image) I&N Demand Everything about East of West has been great. Hickman went bigger with this world of his, and he’s owned it–like a mad god suffering from significant stretches of lucidity.

Stray Bullets: Sunshine and Roses #1 (Image) I&N Demand The follow-up to the killer Killers arc. Didn’t read Killers? Haven’t been hit by any Stray Bullets at all? Consider this a jumping on point–one that’ll inspire you to jump backward into the satisfyingly-uncomfortable line of fire; into a shotgun blast of expertly-wielded ambiguity. Pull the trigger, you son of a gun! Give Sunshine and Roses a shot!

This week isn’t defined so much by the number of books I’m getting as it’s defined by one particular book I’m getting. You’ll know which one when you get to it. So much for self control!

The Massive #26 (Dark Horse): Winding down to the end. (I’m still in denial about it, mind you.) #25 was OK–tough to be the first issue after an arc that truly slakes the thirst like “Sahara”–but had that “setting up the wind down” feel to it. Silver lining: answers are on the horizon.

Mind MGMT #25 (Dark Horse): Can’t type about #24 without first mentioning the gorgeous wraparound cover–which, by the way, was won at auction by some lucky fan for a smidgen over $5000: I got Lyme disease just looking at it! Inside, a bit of a retrospective, more a Rosetta Stone–all through the lens of Henry Lyme, who’s heart is so lovingly revealed–and it’s Merutiful!. Loved it. OK, so, the big question about this month’s issue: how much is this cover going to go for?

Mind MGMT #25

Pop #1 (Dark Horse):This poppy premise is definitely Top 40: a prefabbed pop princess goes off the reservation! Will she auto-tune her way out of trouble? Or will she go full Milli Vanilli? Don’t know the creators, but when has that ever stopped me? Here’s hoping that Curt Pires and Jason Copland deliver a hit–and that they’re not one-hit wonders.

Pop #1

Bodies #2 (DC/Vertigo): Loved, loved, loved the quilt that Si Spencer stitched together with his coterie of co-creators. We liked it so much that we’ve made it one of our Top 5 Books of July! (Write-up to come.)

Bodies #2

Dead Boy Detectives #8 (DC/Vertigo): Continues to be an engaging read a la The Books of Magic ongoing.

Superman #34 (DC): Finally! A Superman book worth reading! It’s felt like forever since Morrison left and took his massive moments with him. Two issues into their arc, Johns and Romita, Jr. have proven that they are worthy successors–even if they are a bit more straightforward in terms of storytelling.

The Last Fall #2 (IDW): Wasn’t knocked out by #1, but I’m going to try another. Why? Since you asked: I’m giving Tom Waltz my attention because of his terrific work on TMNT. I’m loyal like that.

Low #2 (Image): Not high on this but not exactly low, either. Yes, #1 read like a Remender book; but Greg Tocchini’s art, which is pretty excellent, made me think but not mind that I was basically reading The Wake Part II #1. I’m going to go against my better judgement and buy this one. I don’t know–maybe this’ll be the book that finally turns me toward Remender. Then again, the writer’s own words from #1 haunt–and taunt–me; they are essentially telling me to lay off: “Being optimistic doesn’t mean you have to ignore the realities around you.” Preach, Reverend Rick. Preach.

Low #2

The Manhattan Projects #23 (Image): In #22, Hickman refers to a “line between the mundane and the divine.” Usually, TMP is firmly planted on the divine side; it’s as consistent a book as you’re going to find. However, much of #22 toes that ironically referenced line; in fact, it does a much-too-talky tip-toe dance for a goodly part of the book. But, in typical Hickman fashion, it ends elegantly on pointe. And blade. And spike.

Outcast #3 (Image): The story is compelling enough, with its layers and all. Robert Kirkman and Paul Azaceta–whose art, as colored by Elizabeth Breitweiser, reminds of David Aja’s–have done a fine job of developing a sense of dread–you know, the seventh sense–and authentic sympathy for Kyle.

Saga #22 (Image): Honesty: #19 and #20 left me a bit wanting; yeah, hadn’t been feeling so gaga about Saga–until #21, that is. Oof, what a comeback. (Not so much for Mama Sun, though, eh?) Five big splashes from Fiona Staples help hammer home the love, the hate, the hurt–the brilliance—of Saga.

Saga #22

Wayward #1 (Image): Marketed as “Buffy the Vampire Slayer for a new generation,” but gonna give it a try anyway. God knows I love a me a good “supernatural spectacle,” you know, like the supernaturally terrific Thomas Alsop (BOOM!).

All-New X-Men #31 (Marvel): Still haven’t gotten a hold of #30. Figures that just as I came around to what Bendis is doing I can’t find the damn book on the shelf. My fault, I guess. I should’ve put it on my pull list as soon as things turned toward the positive for me.

Original Sin #5.4 (Marvel): Once again, a crossover has come along and murdered momentum–in the case of Loki: Agent of Asgard, magical momentum. It’s been nice to look at; otherwise, I can’t wait for this nonsense to fall away so we can get back on the alluringly loqucious Lokimotive.

Silver Surfer #5 (Marvel): We’ve celebrated each of the first three issues as a top book of the month. (See: March, April, and June.) #4 was great, too; but, because of all of the greater books that dropped in July, it missed being a Top 5 book. It was easily a Top 10 title, though. Despite a dignified drop in the I&N rankings, one thing’s been a constant: SS has been a perfect marriage of writer and artist: Slott’s writing the new adventures of Norrin Radd like it was his professional destiny, and Allred’s, well, Allred: he is the power cosmic complement who makes the book pop–for as long as they both shall live. Or at least until their hang-tenure is over.

Silver Surfer #5

Brass Sun #4 (2000 A.D.): I’m digging Brass Sun. I like the possibilities offered up by the universe that Ian Edginton’s created, and I’ve really taken to artist I.N.J. Culbard’s approach and how carries the story without ever distracting from it. #3, with its twists and spurns, has kicked things up a notch. On to the next!

Evil Empire #4 (BOOM!): Speaking of a #3 that delivered some twists! Glad I didn’t ditch after #2! Can’t look past the great covers by Jay Shaw, either. Then again, you have to, you know, if you want to read the book. Rest assured: it’s OK if you want to judge Evil Empire by this cover:

Evil Empire #4

The Sixth Gun #42 (Oni Press): Still a bit behind. This’ll sit on a short stack, which I will–i must–read before I go back to work.

X-O Manowar #28 (Valiant): Generally, I don’t care for crossovers, but the Armor Hunters diversion works well here, for obvious reasons. Sure, Archer & Armstrong and Quantum and Woody deserve the accolades they’ve received. (Harvey noms are nothing to sneeze at.) Robert Venditti, however, deserves a lot of credit for playing a one-note character into a symphony of sympathy, which has lasted, now, for twenty-eight issues.

Avery’s Pick of the Week:

Bee and Puppycat #3 (BOOM!): Avery just thinks that Bee and Puppycat is the dog’s meow.

Another big week of big books, highlighted by four titles from our Top Ten of 2013 (Wild Blue Yonder, Saga, Zero, and Archer & Armstrong) and an Archie two-fer!

Batman and Robin #33 (DC): Robin Rises: Omega #1–a nonsensical, never-ending fight scene–was a huge disappointment. You know what? I’m going to pretend it never happened. Will be tough, though: I’m not too excited about the inevitable change of scenery; Lord Darkseid knows I’ve never been a fan of Apokolips.

Dead Boy Detectives #7 (DC/Vertigo): DBD has been very good–especially the previous Through the Looking Glass-inspired two-parter. New story starts here.

Superman #33 (DC): Re: #32: The new Men of Today: Geoff Johns and John Romita, Jr. have started their reign well with Men of Tomorrow. Liked how the former twisted Supes’ origin and came up with the well-named Ulysses. The latter proved that his style suits Superman just fine.

Wonder Woman #33 (DC): Azzarello and Chiang are on their way out. It’s been a helluva run–and gods know I will loyally follow them to the finish line.

Wonder Woman #33

Wild Blue Yonder #5 (IDW): Prepare to be jealous: I’ve already read it. Liked it a lot. (Shouldn’t come as much of a surprise: we’ve celebrated this series from the guys at Noble Transmission since take off.) It lives up to the standard set by issues before: it’s summer-blockbuster big with some massive art moments from Zach Howard and Nelson Daniel. (Nobody does double-page spreads like these guys.) I particularly like how in a relativist sense the Judge is pretty much a good guy, as he is trying to do right by his people. Just so happens other folks–those who call The Dawn home–would have to suffer in order for his people to survive. If I’m finding myself rooting for the Judge, it’s because Mike Raicht is selling him well–kind of like how Patricia Highsmith convinces you root for the immoral Thomas Ripley; that’s high praise, indeed! Also sold well is the big “final” moment, which is drawn out just long enough to sell one character’s sacrifice and another’s loss. Can’t wait to see how everything plays out. If you can’t wait to find out more about this issue, check out Derek’s review here.

Wild Blue Yonder #5

Saga #21 (Image): This arc hasn’t really lived up to the Saga standard. That being said, it’s still better than most. #20 ended on a robot strong note–even if it were a bit too robotic, too thick with politic.

Trees #3 (Image): Hasn’t grown on me. In fact, Derek and I agree: there’s been too much junk in the trunk; and, as a result, Trees #2 is our Biggest Dis(appointment) of June. May have to chop this one down. Might have trouble seeing the forest for the cover, though.

Tress #3

Velvet #6 (Image): New arc time. The first one rubbed me the right way. Something very modest about it.

Zero #9 (Image): The series started with so much promise. That promise, however, has been broken. Into pieces. Tiny, tiny pieces. We denounced #8 as our Biggest Dis(appointment) of May. It’ll take an act of God or my typical lack of willpower to get this one into my bag,

Supreme: Blue Rose #1 (Image): Ellis is lighting it up on Moon Knight yet is growing Trees at an pine’s pace. Wonder what we’ll get here.

Supreme: Blue Rose #1

Daredevil #6 (Marvel): #5 offered up my favorite line of the year: “Kudos to cancer.” Man, I laughed; and then I was like “Ugh”; and then I laughed some more. It’s quite clear: Mark ain’t afraid to Waid into some daring dialogue–especially if it’s meant to develop Matt further as the very best of friends and as the perfect Daredevil.

Afterlife With Archie #6 (Archie): Roberto Aguirre Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla’s first arc was as close to perfect as can be. Expectations are very high for the next.

Archer & Armstrong #22 (Valiant): “American Wasteland” has been a blast! Re: #21: I mean, ho-Lee crap: Fred Van Lente is fearless–he’s the Lone Funman! It was so much fun, in fact, that we’ll be celebrating it as one of our Top 5 Books of June. You know, when we get around to it.

Archer & Armstrong #22

Life With Archie #37 (Archie): Honesty: #36 was my first issue of LWA. (I know I’m not alone in that one.) It won’t be my last. It was really, really good. Love the choices Paul Kupperberg–who wrote one of my far- from-Archie faves: Vigilante–made while walking his way through Archie’s life. Just took one issue to make me care a whole lot about the aftermath.

The Midas Flesh #8 (BOOM!): Mercifully comes the end. After a strong #2, the series quickly went south and has unfortunately stayed that course–not plot-wise, per se; it’s been an execution issue, including too much in the way of leaden redundancies. Maybe–just maybe–the end’ll be the true North we’ve been searching for.

Ordinary #3 (Titan): Mercilessly comes to an end. An end? Already? Noooooooooooooooo! Damn, man, the first two issues have been so very good. We celebrated #1 as one of our Top 5 Books of May, and #2 will be recognized as one of our Top Books of June, you know, eventually. Have every expectation that this’ll be just as good–if not better! A strong finale will bump Rob Williams from a laudable Must Try to a rare Must Buy.

Ordinary #3

The Twilight Zone #7 (Dynamite): This second arc hasn’t been as nearly as compelling as the first. That being said, #6 was definitely a step up from #5. I’ll probably ride this one out, return to my home dimension and leave the key to imagination under the mat for the next guy.

Paige’s Pick of the Week

Popeye #24 (IDW): Big Sister’s still working on her pile from last week, so Baby Sister gets her second book in three weeks–of life! I’ve keyed in on Popeye for her because she looks like the spinach-chompin’ sailor man when she eats. And the cover’s an appropriate hoot, too, ’cause toot toot, my baby girl is goshdarn gassy!

On paper–where else, really–this is easily the best week of books of the year. (Not hyperbolic.) Maybe ever. (Still not.)

We’re looking at three–count ’em: three–Top 5 books from last month. Seven titles that have been recognized as Top 5 books at some point. Three titles that earned Top Ten honors for 2013. Two 2014 Innie Award nominees for Best Ongoing Series, two for Best Writer, and three for Best Artist. (Totally not!)

Maybe I’ll buy this bunch and then call it quits–you know, quit comics on the highest of notes and start saving some money. (Duh.)

The Massive #24 (Dark Horse): The Massive is on quite a roll! It’s an epic of biblical proportions, and since February we’ve celebrated it religiously as a Top 5 book! Here’s why we loved #23.

Mind MGMT #23 (Dark Horse): Another book worth celebrating! Sure, it earned our Biggest Dis(appointment) of April; but Matt Kindt rebounded with a terrific #22, which, you guessed it, bounced back into our Top 5 for May.

Mind MGMT #23

Star Wars: Rebel Heist #3 (Dark Horse): Leia’s turn wasn’t as strong as Han’s, but who expected it to be? Han’s the man, and Kindt got Carraway-ed as he covered F. Scott Fitzgerald to tell his story. Leia’s chapter was a bit more La Femme Nikita. Next up: Chewbacca. I’m sure Kindt will put him in some sort of hairy position.

Superman #32 (DC): Could this be the Superman we’ve been waiting for? With heavies like Geoff Johns and John Romita, Jr. on board, I’m thinking yes–hoping yes. I mean, come on: they’ve only got the weight of the DC Universe on their shoulders.

Outcast #1 (Image): An ironic title–only because it’ll probably be included in just about every buyer’s bag. Wondering: will we the buyers be buying this because we’re zombies–keyed on Kirkman and slaves to shiny number ones?

Saga #20 (Image): #19 didn’t excite in the way we’ve come to expect from Saga. Taint a big deal. Or should that be: A big taint deal. Or: A big deal taint. Ah, it’s one of those. Previews’ preview promises: “Something terrible happens.” Not to the taint, I hope.

Stray Bullets: Killers #4 (Image): #1 set the world on notice: David Lapham and his Bullets are back! Since, his bullets have strayed a bit, reminding me why I loved #1 so much. I’d love to love this one:

Stray Bullets: Killers #4

Trees #2 (Image): Warren Ellis is growing something with Trees. I want to be there when it blooms–whatever the hell it is.

The Midas Flesh #7 (BOOM!): The series started off with such promise, didn’t it. Ryan North seemed to lose his way with the ethical dilemmas at the heart of the book. The narrative ground to a near halt with redundant, drawn out dialogue that read less like gold and more like lead.

Ordinary #2 (Titan): Wouldn’t you know: Ordinary #1 proved to be extraordinary–and earned a spot in our Top 5 for May. Hoping with all my heart that #2 doesn’t choke on the promise that Rob Williams made with his initial offering. If you enjoyed Montynero’s Death Sentence, also from Titan, you’ll definitely dig this.

Ordinary #2

Rachel Rising #26 (Abstract Studio): Terry Moore cast a spell on us last year–one that influenced us to include his American horror story in our Top Ten of 2013. Since then, however, the spell has worn off, specifically after the last two issues, which have been, well, not good.

Yup: I’ll be walking out of Android’s Amazing Comics with two full bags of books. This is the longest list yet and is a testament to my insatiable appetite, my unchecked addiction for comics.

American Vampire: The Second Cycle #3 (DC/Vertigo): The standout Snyder moment of #2: the creature with an imploring Peter inside of it. Creepy as hell. Speaking of: I wasn’t so tempted by the devil of an ending. But even after two issues, it’s clear that this is where Snyder does his best work.

American Vampire: The Second Cycle #3

Batman and Frankenstein #31 (DC): My interest is on life support. It’s the promise of Frankenstein that’s keeping it alive. For now. See: Tomasi’s not as sharp as he’s been; and Gleason, in the last issue, disappointed with his wonky Wonder Woman. I know they’re building toward the return of Robin and that that’s going to be epic, blah, blah, blah. But shouldn’t each issue leading up to it be just as epic–and if not, at least be as tight as an Amazon? I’m talking temper. What’d you think I was talking about?

Wonder Woman #31 (DC): Speaking of tight Amazons: #30 was excellent. Nearly made our Top 5 Books of April. I mean, come on: how about that last page. Make a wish, indeed! That’s high praise for a book that’s been solid, sure, but that has rarely hit a homerun. And even when it has, they’ve been softball homeruns. This last issue, however, would’ve been out of any Big League park–well, except for maybe Citi Field.

Monster and Madman #3 (IDW): Has been a fun ride thus far. Niles doesn’t just hit the right notes–he slays them; and Worm’s art provides a perfectly horrific backdrop for this grotesque get-together.

A Voice in the Dark #7 (Image): I’m hoping that this arc ender screams bloody murder! Just sayin’.

East of West #12 (Image): Hickman’s a world builder who works at his own pace: he takes his time laying a foundation and has certainly taken his time here, that’s for sure. Of late, however, stories are thrusting skyward with such force so as to pierce our patient expectations. Protect your eyes, friends, because East of West is finally fulfilling promises.

Velvet #5 (Image): Brubaker and Epting are doin’ their thing, and it’s rubbing me the right way. Reads a lot like–but isn’t quite as good as–Rucka and Lark’s Lazarus. The first arc ends here. Expecting a bang or two.

Zero #8 (Image): #7 was a well-crafted return to form after a very disappointing, near-nonsensical #6.

Daredevil #3 (Marvel): #2 was Daredevil in every sense–including sight: it’s dark, it’s funny–it’s fearless. New York, San Fran: doesn’t matter; this hero’s the heart of any city he’s in.

Daredevil #3

Elektra #2 (Marvel): I may have to pass. Sai. W. Haden Blackman’s writing was enigmatic at times (as it could be in Batwoman)–and, I mean, come on: Bloody Lips?! A villainous vagina dentata! Ouch! Doesn’t help that we’re headed to Monster Island. Because when I think of Elektra, I think of Monster Island.

Original Sin #2 (Marvel): Jason Aaron’s earned my attention with a killer kickoff to Southern Bastards, which means I’m going to give in to Sin even though I wasn’t exactly thrilled by it.

Uncanny X-Men #21 (Marvel): This is weird for me; yeah, I’m not used to saying this: #20 was pretty good. I dig me some Chris Bachalo, and Bendis kept him mighty busy.

The Bunker #4 (Oni Press): Continues to be a revelation: Fialkov’s showing complete mastery over time with his simultaneous storylines, and Infurnari’s sketchy style complements the shifts so very well. There’s danger lurking around the corner, however: I can see a heavy hand hovering over future pages–one ready to abuse the abuse angle. Oh, if that happens, I’m going to say, “No!”; then I’m going to go and tell someone I trust.

Ordinary #1 (Titan): Sounds fun enough. I’ve liked Royals: Masters of War enough to give Rob Williams another shot. Plus, Titan’s offered up some pretty solid books–including Death Sentence and Numbercruncher, which has been nominated for the 2014 Innie for Best Limited Series and has, in part, earned Si Spurrier (also considered for his work on BOOM!’s Six-Gun Gorilla) a nomination for Best Writer.

Solar: Man of the Atom #2 (Dynamite): Still haven’t read #1. Not sure if I care enough, if I’m being fair.

Translucid #2 (BOOM!): Lots of good things going on in #1. Lovely, lovely layers delivered by Claudio Sanchez, Chondra Echert (writers/creators), Daniel Bayliss (artist, who reminds of Jeff Stokely, who just so happens to be the cover artist!), and Adam Metcalfe (colorist). Has got me thinking Six-Gun Gorilla, which is a good thing.

Translucid #2

Unity #7 (Valiant): I was going to pull the plug after #5, but #6 ended up in my bag because I had forgotten to purge it from my pull list. And then Kindt had to go all Mind MGMT with Dr. Silk’s virus. So, yeah, seven.

X-O Manowar #25 (Valiant): It’s no secret: big events usually turn me off. Preludes to big events usually piss me off. In the case of #24, however, I was actually pleasantly surprised. Who knew I’d be looking forward to Armor Hunters?

The recent announcement of the 2014 Eisner Award nominees have occasioned much debate here at the I&N offices (located in a snug chateau high in the Swiss Alps). Needless to say we were filled with outrage! (And by ‘outrage’ I mean ‘mild disagreement’.) The choices for nominees did not exactly match our own! The temerity! This would not stand! And so, we here at I&N proudly present: the Innies!

What does ‘Innies’ stand for? Well other than an attempt at shameless self-branding, it stands for ‘independence’! Being ‘in’ the know! Part of the ‘in’ crowd! And possessing the non-freaky type of belly button.

Since we don’t have the big-time budget of the fancy-pants Eisners, we’ve limited ourselves to six categories (sorry Letterers of Archival Collections of Anthologies for Early Readers!)

If the Eisners are the Oscars, and the Harveys are the Golden Globes, then we’re the Independent Spirits! (or at least the Ace Awards)

Our first Top 5 of the year! If the titles below are any indication, 2014 is already shaping up to be a great one for our beloved medium. To wit:

5. Afterlife With Archie #3 (Archie): Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and Francesco Francavilla serve up another clinic on the art of the mash-up. Opening with a nightmare scene worthy of EC Comics, this issue also treats us to tragic teen romance (is there any other kind?), a new wrinkle on a classic rivalry, and a climactic set piece featuring teens in bathing suits engaging in the kind of logic that only makes sense in horror movies. Oh, and two more beloved characters acquire the taste for human flesh. Forget that other zombie book; this is the best undead comic on the stands, and a lot more fun besides. (DM)

Afterlife with Archie #3

4. Saga #18 (Image): Our #4 book of 2013 kicks off the year in feline fashion!

Saga #18

Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples head into their well-deserved–and freakin’ fan-frustrating!–“Vacationanza” with another extraordinary chapter rife with expertly orchestrated peril and commensurate–in one case, winged–crescendos. The issue bares its teeth–along with poor Lying Cat–on page one and from there hits the high notes that our hearts–which are wrenched and warmed by design–long to hear, that they recognize and react to, like a favorite song or a lover’s voice. The final note, struck on the final splash, resounds, envelops us in pure joy. “That a girl,” indeed. OK, sure, the “TIME JUMP!” is a bit of a leap; but isn’t that what we love about these creators–these characters, even? When they go, they go boldly. And the result? I mean, by now, “Isn’t it obvious?” (SC)

3. The Midas Flesh #2 (BOOM!): Ryan North made his name on the wise-assery of his clip art cult favorite Dinosaur Comics and his innovative, medium-bending work on the Eisner Award-winning Adventure Time comic book. Here he tries something a little different: a more or less straight up narrative. Forgoing the conceptual bells and whistles of his earlier work, North trusts instead in the fantastic nature of the story he’s telling. And so far it’s a doozy: a band of space explorers have discovered a planet shrouded in legend and frozen in time; encrusted in solid gold and instant death to any who descend upon it. The planet of course, is earth. Mixing science fiction, ancient mythology and talking dinosaurs (naturally) North is able to balance his trademark philosophical/slacker humor with high adventure and some genuine pathos. And then there is the ethereal beauty, recalling the ruins of Pompeii, and rendered lovingly by series artists Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb, of the transitory everyday moments, gilded for all eternity, commemorated in catastrophe. (DM)

The Midas Flesh #2

2. Fatale #19 (Image): I have to admit, this long-time favorite had fallen a bit on the old depth chart recently. The noir/horror (noirror) tone established, if not invented, by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips seemed to spring naturally from the early stories taking place in the 1950s and worked surprisingly well in such far-flung eras as the Middle Ages, the Wild West and the 1970s. But somehow, the Seattle grunge scene of the early ’90’s seemed a poor fit. All the shaggy hair and Doc Martens seemed to dull the edge of the knife Brubaker’s been wielding (or maybe it just brought back too many memories). But with this issue, they’ve once again reached Nirvana. Our unfortunate band of would-be rockers, the latest to fall under the spell of the title character, are dispatched in a pool of blood and flannel in an issue as cold and sleek as any in the series. And by the end, Brubaker has masterfully set up his players for the present-day finale. The femme fatale has found herself. Her enemies have found her. And you’ll find the sweet, foreboding sense of despair that has become this title’s stock in trade, especially in those last few unrelenting pages. And in the knowledge that the end of this book is nigh. Savor it while you can. (DM)

Fatale #19

1. Mind MGMT #18 (Dark Horse): The following confession is being made under extreme coercion. Not physical or emotional, but artistic. You see, everything that’s appeared on this site about Matt Kindt’s superlative Mind MGMT has been written by our man Scott. That’s because until recently, I was not reading it. This is no fault of Scott’s; he’s been pushing it on me ever since I gave him my copy of issue one (gave it to him! like some philistine! some rube! some unmitigated yokel!). I rationalized that I wasn’t a fan of conspiracy fiction; after all, early on the book was garnering comparisons to Lost (with praise from Damon Lindelof yet) and I’ve generally found such fare queasily claustrophobic. So despite its quality, which was readily apparent from the get-go, I figured it simply wasn’t my cup of tea. The change came with issue 13, the first of a series of one-shots each focusing on a different character. But the selling point was really the cover:

Amidst all the slick sci-fi and sexy superheroes was a comic that looked like a 1950’s issue of Good Housekeeping? Talk about audacity! But that was only the beginning. Inside I found that Kindt was playing all sorts of games, unearthing his sordid, multi-layered drama from beneath a veneer of suburban bliss. As the one-shots continued, each gaining momentum from the last, so did Kindt’s lay-outs and design choices become ever more daring, until story and art finally exploded in a beautifully orchestrated climax of form and content in the epic #17 (which, not coincidentally, we named the top single issue of 2013). Claustrophobic? Anything but! Such wild experimentation happily continues in #18, from its Rousseau-inspired cover, to the subtextual juxtaposition of text and images, quite unlike anything I’ve seen (*impressed*). And so I’ve finally succumbed to Kindt’s persuasion: I’ve bought the trades (sadly, not printed on newsprint like the single issues), absorbed the stories and have surrendered my will to Mind MGMT. Because this is what comics can do. Book of the Month. (DM)

Mind MGMT #18

The Biggest Dis(appointment): All-New Invaders #1 (Marvel):

I know that you thought the same thing I thought when I first saw this advertised: James Robinson and Steve Pugh? Yes, please. Well, didn’t take very long for that to turn into No, thanks. Perhaps I should’ve paid more attention to the “All-New” designation, which, from recent experience, is wielded not unlike “delicious” on a box of gluten-free anything. Once you get into it–once you take a bite–you find yourself thinking What was I thinking? For Gods and Soldiers’ sakes, I’m still picking the clichés out of my teeth! And if Robinson were shooting for hokey–as a bit of an homage, I suppose–with his dialogue, well, then he hit the mark. Oh, he Imperius Wrecks the mark, all right! Yeah, someone should’ve invaded the dialogue writing process to liberate the language from the atrocities of The Word Reich–to prevent the Hokeycaust! I guess I should’ve seen it coming. I guess I was blinded by my faith in Robinson. I guess I was remembering fondly some of my early experiences with The Invaders. (In fact, I have a few early copies, including #2 (1975), which I bought in 1983 around the same time I got into Wolfman’s Vigilante. How’s that for a memory, eh?) I guess, too, I was hoping that I’d finally get a version of Captain America–post-Brubaker–that I could be proud of. In the end, guess what: it doesn’t take supreme intelligence to realize that the All-New Invaders is, disappointingly, old news. So, when’s Fantastic Four #1 coming out, again? (SC)

Dead Boy Detectives #2 (DC/Vertigo): #1 was a revelation. The narrative–comprised of three distinct voices–was constructed with a breezy brilliance that amplified the complexity of the characters and their conflict yet remained eminently readable. Equal parts engaging and enraging, this book looks like a real winner in the venerable Vertigo style.

Dead Boy Detectives #2

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #30 (IDW): Yup, it’s true: I’m still on board. Seems I’ve been taken by the Turtles! As it turns, while Mateus Sanotolouco gave me every reason to jump on board and, with the end of his run, an easy out, Ross Campbell is insisting that I stick around. Perhaps the real credit should be given to Kevin Eastman and Tom Waltz for their consistency, for their ability to elevate expertly an eternal novelty.

Clone #14 (Image): #13 was a bit of a backslide, a trip onto the ol’ backside. Yeah, it didn’t kick my ass; but it all-sorts-of-other-thingsed Luke’s ass. Yowza. Too much? Well, in terms of expectations, David Schulner and the gang sure as hell wrecked ’em. Let’s hope they’re back on track this month: phallic stage, here we come!

Clone #14

East of West #9 (Image): Each issue is delivered in a decidedly deliberate manner, which is an unmistakable hallmark of Jonathan Hickman’s storytelling. In that, the series has been solid–every issue’s been good; but it still plays like a side project compared to the atomic wedgie Hickman’s been giving to the atomic age in the expertly crafted and explosively funny The Manhattan Projects.

Saga #18 (Image): God, I hate Saga! Lying.

Saga #18

Saviors #2 (Image): Not sure how “new” the story felt, but I’m going to give it another shot anyway. What’s the draw: J. Bone, of course.

Inhumanity #2 (Marvel): I’ll flip through it. The first one–eh, it was a bit of a slog. The end, however, while predictable in one respect, hinting at cracks in Fraction’s foundation, did have a killer twist, which restored my faith in the writer, who clearly has a Karnak for keeping us on on our toes.

Miracleman #2 (Marvel): #1 was my first exposure to the character. Loved hearing Alan Moore’s voice, that’s for sure. Didn’t care so much for bonus material, though. Despite the threat of even more bonus material, I’m up for #2.

Uber #9 (Avatar): Of late, has been overshadowed by Gillen’s Spartan effort on the thrilling Three. Still, Uber‘s been mostly fascinating even with the frequent flow pas.